Through the Years
Since its inception, the Adopt-a-Highway program has grown into a symbol of Texas pride and environmental stewardship. Over four decades, thousands of volunteers have joined hands to keep our highways clean, safe, and beautiful. Explore our interactive timeline to see how this movement evolved into a global inspiration.
As we celebrate 40 years in 2025, we honor those who made a difference and invite new generations to take part. Together, we’re shaping the future of a cleaner, prouder Texas.
To mark the 40th Anniversary of Adopt-a-Highway, we’ve created a new Get Started Kit for anyone ready to adopt their 2-mile stretch of Texas highway.
Our kit includes everything you need to kick off your adoption journey: a quick-start guide with steps to apply (QR code included), a bilingual poster (English on one side, Spanish on the other) perfect for common areas, and a safety checklist to keep your crew informed and safe on location.
All materials are available as downloadable, printable files — easy to use at home, at work, or wherever your team gathers.
Ready to jump in? Explore the full kit and see how simple it is to get started.
A Movement Born in Texas: 40 Years of Adopt-a-Highway
When the Tyler Civitan Club adopted a two-mile stretch of U.S. Highway 69 in 1985, its members likely didn’t know they’d be the inaugural volunteers for the Adopt-a-Highway program that would grow into a global movement for environmental stewardship and community pride. Sparked by the Tyler Civitan Club’s enthusiasm, many other groups joined the program and blanketed the state. Today, we can proudly say that for 40 years, thousands of volunteers throughout the state have played a vital role in keeping Texas highways clean, safe and beautiful.
We have much to celebrate during Adopt-a-Highway’s 40th anniversary year! The program has made a profound difference on our state by encouraging individuals, organizations, and businesses to take responsibility for keeping sections of highways litter free and fostering civic engagement and environmental consciousness.
- Environmental Impact
Over four decades, millions of pounds of litter have been removed, helping to preserve natural landscapes, protect wildlife and improve highway safety. - Community Involvement
The program strengthens community bonds by involving local volunteers, promoting teamwork, and instilling a sense of responsibility for public spaces. Many participants say a highlight of their Adopt-a-Highway volunteer experience is the camaraderie with fellow, like-minded Texans. - Global Influence
What started as a Texas initiative has inspired similar programs worldwide, showcasing how small, local actions can have a global ripple effect. Today, Adopt-a-Highway is a grassroots movement involving nearly 90,000 groups in 49 states, Puerto Rico, Canada, New Zealand, Australia and Japan. - Economic Benefits
Texas spends $48 million in taxpayer dollars to pick up litter every year. Reducing roadside litter saves taxpayer money by decreasing highway maintenance costs and enhances tourism by keeping highways clean and scenic. - Educational Outreach
The program raises public awareness about the importance of litter prevention and environmental sustainability, influencing future generations by changing audience behaviors to prevent litter in the future.
By celebrating this important 40th anniversary milestone, we honor the Adopt-a-Highway program’s legacy and inspire continued commitment to environmental stewardship.
Adopt-a-highway “get started” kit
Adopt-a-Highway’s 40th anniversary is a great time to join the program! If you’re interested in joining generations of Texans who have linked arms to make a lasting impact on our state by keeping our highways clean, safe and beautiful, please download our “Get Started Kit” here.
This kit is designed to support you every step of the way, with resources, tips and safety guidelines to enhance your Adopt-a-Highway experience. We want you to feel recognized and valued for the difference you’re making in your community and across our state.
When you adopt a two-mile stretch of highway, you inspire others to get involved, strengthen community bonds and help preserve the natural beauty of Texas. Together, we can create a cleaner and more beautiful future.
Two-mile Stretches of State Highway Available for Adoption
To adopt your very own two-mile stretch of highway, just follow these easy steps:
- Apply online: Submit an application and select a highway section.
- Sign the agreement: Commit to cleaning your section four times a year.
- Stay safe: View our safety training video and follow safety guidelines.
- Receive supplies: TxDOT provides vests, bags and traffic signs.
- Make a difference: Start your cleanup and help keep Texas beautiful.
You’re in good company! Want to hear from someone who went through the adoption experience? The Daytripper, Chet Garner, enthusiastically shares his journey here.
Thank you for your interest in adopting a two-mile stretch of highway and showing your commitment to protecting our state’s natural beauty.
